Colaba Causeway

Overview

Colaba Causeway (Shahid Bhagat Singh Marg) is Mumbai's most famous shopping street, stretching from the Gateway of India area southward through the Colaba neighbourhood. It buzzes with street stalls, quirky boutiques, and antique shops.

Highlights

• Street Shopping: Hundreds of pavement stalls sell everything from boho jewellery and leather bags to vintage Bollywood posters and brass figurines.
• Antique Shops: Several established antique dealers sell colonial-era maps, furniture, and curios from the Raj period.
• Café Culture: The street is punctuated by beloved institutions like Café Mondegar (with its Galgotia murals) and Leopold Café.

History

The 'causeway' refers to the original land connection built in 1838 to join Colaba Island to the Mumbai mainland. The shopping street evolved organically from trading activity around the gateway area and has been a commercial hub ever since.

Visitor Tips

• Bargain: Always negotiate on pavement stalls — the first price is typically 2–3x the expected selling price.
• Evening Visit: The street is most atmospheric in the evenings when stalls are fully set up and lit.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.